How To Become A Electrical Engineer | Career Paths & Education

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Pathways to this career

  1. Aspiring engineers must complete an undergraduate electrical engineering degree, with a major in electrical engineering.

  2. Study a postgraduate course in engineering to further your chances of obtaining a management or project lead role.

  3. Apply for a Professional Engineer's License and work independently as a contractor. Prerequisites include a completed bachelor of engineering, and at least 4 years of industry work experience.

What does an electrical engineer do?

Electrical engineers design electronics in a variety of capacities. They conduct research on and design electrical component, equipment, or systems. At times, they also must test and maintain the machinery or equipment they have developed.

Duties and tasks

  • Design electrical components like cathode ray tubes, circuit breakers, or conductors.

  • Develop larger electrical machinery like motors.

  • Interpret research, drawings, specifications, and regulations to fit the problem at hand.

  • May specialise in fields like air traffic control, power generation, traffic systems, consumer products, electric motors, etc.

  • Plan, design, and maintain overall electrical systems or power distribution networks.

  • Survey the operations of electrical systems and networks.

Industry bodies

  • Association of Professional Engineers, Scientists and Managers Australia

  • Engineers Australia is the national forum for the advancement of engineering

  • National Engineering Registration Board

Related jobs

  • Computer hardware engineer

  • Electronic engineering technician

  • Environmental engineer

  • Power engineer

  • Research engineer

  • Systems analyst

Discover engineering courses

Adelaide University

Associate Degree in Engineering

UndergraduateADU-ADE-ADG

Build a strong foundation in engineering to get you started

Study engineering principles – based on maths, physics, and design. You’ll explore civil, mechanical, electrical, and mechatronics. Gain experience with industry software. Graduate work-ready or choose further study to become a fully qualified engineer.

Read moreStudy method100% onlineDuration2 years full time or part time equivalentExplore detailsSouthern Cross University

Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)

UndergraduateSCU-ENS-DEG

Become a professional and accredited engineer

This engineering degree unpacks the maths and science engineers need to solve complex engineering problems. Choose to specialise in civil or mechanical engineering. 60 days of industry placement develops your professional conduct and judgement.

Read moreStudy methodOnline & on-campusDuration4 years full time or part time equivalentExplore detailsUniversity of Queensland

Graduate Certificate in Engineering Science

PostgraduateUOQ-FSE-GCE

Explore a fast-growing discipline in engineering

Add to your engineering expertise with this introductory postgraduate course. Understand how fire behaves within different structures and what codes and practices need to be followed during the design process to prevent disaster. 

Read moreStudy methodOnline & on-campusDuration6 months full time or part time equivalentExplore detailsSouthern Cross University

Diploma of Engineering

UndergraduateSCU-CCE-DIP

Move up the ladder to supervision in civil construction

Take your trade to the next level. Upskill in specialisations including CAD, site safety, and planning. Graduate and be ready for roles including estimator and safety officer. Or continue your studies in civil engineering with degree level study.

Read moreStudy methodOnline & on-campusDuration1 year full time or part time equivalentExplore detailsExplore engineering courses

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